Here are five basic tips to get you started and to ensure that you are well received and welcomed back: 1) Refrain from making typical American gestures anywhere while traveling. The OK sign, the index finger and thumb forming a circle, is an obscene gesture in Brazil, impolite in Greece and in many areas of Russia. In Japan it means money and in France, zero or valueless. The V for victory sign, (palm pointing away…

Many people use the words lectern and podium interchangeably. There actually is a difference. A lectern is most commonly defined as a slanted stand that serves as a support for a speaker’s notes. It often has a microphone and a light attached. A podium is an elevated platform, as for an orchestra conductor or public speaker. However, because a podium is often requested when someone means lectern, it has become a practice in America, especially, to…

5 Quick Tips for Executive Women When Speaking in Public Do stand with two feet on the ground. Move with purpose and to shift energy. To present yourself powerfully, don’t wrap your legs around each other, cock a hip, or fold your arms at your waist. Ensure that your facial expressions, body language and gestures relate to, and enhance your verbal message. When you increase the volume of your voice, don’t raise the pitch. If…

Here are 3 Quick Tips for Presenting Powerfully 1) When speaking in public, stand firmly on two feet. Create a solid foundation for your body, which will make you appear strong. Hitching a hip, wrapping legs around each other, when standing, can cause you to appear tentative and unsure. 2) Take a step with purpose, rather than being rooted to the floor, or walking aimlessly around the podium or stage. To increase energy or shift the…

Does the thought of speaking at a national sales meeting, or presenting to a new client company fill you with anxiety? From sensitive board room discussions to the basic sales spiel, the power of speech propels the world of commerce. In today’s competitive business environment, the executive who can deliver a polished, effective presentation, gains a distinct edge. To studiously organize every aspect of your talk, yet to be remiss in handling the fear barrier,…

Speaking in public? Have a crucial presentation coming up? Not to worry, here are 5 Quick Tips to enhance your success: 1) Are your stilettos too wobbly? Save them for your evening out clubbing. Are your earrings jangly? Wear attire that is flattering to your figure and appropriate for the audience and the occasion. As a speaker/presenter, you should always be more dressed up than your audience. Keep in mind that chandelier earrings can be…